Comparative studies on breeding biology of Schizothorax esocinus and Schizothorax curvifrons in natural conditions

Abstract

The paper highlights results of experiments conducted on breeding biology of Schizothorax esocinus and Schizothorax curvifrons in natural conditions. Both the species are annual spawners with slightly different breeding periods and exhibiting migration to nearby upstream regions for spawning. Schizothorax esocinus breeds from ending March till July but the peak breeding season is Apri-May. Whereas the breeding season of Schizothorax curvifrons is from May till August but peak breeding season is May-June. Fecundity is significantly high in case of Schizothorax esocinus compared to Schizothorax curvifrons.